Darjeeling MP Raju Bista pays tribute to Major Durga Malla on Martyrs’ Day in Siliguri
Bista also presented the Sangeet Aarohi Samman to legendary music personalities including Shanti Thatal, Ashok Rai, Principal Govind Singh Ghatani, Jeevan Adhikari, Principal Dev Kumar Pradhan, and Narbir Rasaily.
LOCAL
On the occasion of Balidan Diwas (Martyrs’ Day), Darjeeling MP Raju Bista paid rich tributes to Shaheed Major Durga Malla, who laid down his life on this day in 1944 fighting for India’s independence. The day also coincided with the 62nd Foundation Day of Devkota Sangh, Siliguri, where Bista attended as the Chief Guest.
Speaking at the event, Bista highlighted the invaluable contributions of the Gorkha community in India’s freedom struggle and beyond. “The soil of free India has been nourished by the loyalty, courage, and sacrifice of thousands of Gorkha freedom fighters; be it Major Durga Malla of Uttarakhand, Captain Ram Singh Thakuri of Himachal, Dal Bahadur Giri of Darjeeling, Helen Lepcha of Sikkim, or countless other unsung heroes,” he said.
He also recalled the role of leaders like Dambar Gurung and Aribahadur Gurung of Kalimpong, who were members of the Constituent Assembly, and noted that generations of Gorkhas have continued to defend and strengthen the nation since independence. Bista stressed the importance of passing down this history to the younger generation so that they remain rooted in their identity and heritage.
At the celebration, the Devkota Sangh of Siliguri, which has worked for over six decades to preserve and promote Gorkha language, culture, and traditions, was lauded for its tireless efforts. Cultural performances by children and musical presentations by veteran artists marked the day, adding a festive touch to the solemn occasion.
Bista also presented the Sangeet Aarohi Samman to legendary music personalities including Shanti Thatal, Ashok Rai, Principal Govind Singh Ghatani, Jeevan Adhikari, Principal Dev Kumar Pradhan, and Narbir Rasaily. He described it as a moment of pride to recognize the contributions of these stalwarts in enriching Gorkha music and culture.
The program was attended by Devkota Sangh President Milan Ruchal, former IG of West Bengal Police Saroj Gazmer, social worker Naresh Agarwal, and several social activists, language and culture enthusiasts.
Extending his best wishes on the Foundation Day of the Sangh, Bista assured his full support to its future initiatives. “In the days ahead, I will continue to extend my full support to realize the ambitious goals of the Devkota Sangh,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to the cause of the Gorkha community and the preservation of its rich cultural heritage.